The Lion King Hamlet Analysis

Both The Lion King and the play Hamlet, are extremely popular and successful among society. In theory, people believe that both these works portray many similarities, allowing them to make the claim that The Lion King is based off Hamlet. Although, upon taking a deeper look at more than just the plot, it seems that this may not be the case. Many of the characters in both The Lion King and the play Hamlet do not share the same motives for their actions. The characters in Hamlet are more further developed than the characters in The Lion King. Most importantly, the overall themes are too different from one another. While there are similar plot events, The Lion King is too elemently different to be truly based on Hamlet. Throughout both The Lion

Many of the characters within The Lion King act more impulsively and are very genuine with their decisions. Alternatively, much of Hamlet is revolved around the characters deeply plotting their decisions often with deceitful intentions. In actuality, mostly the entire play is a result of Hamlet’s plot and his madness. Because of this, there are many more conflicts between the characters in Hamlet than in The Lion King. As Simba grows up, he understands and accepts the concept of principles. Principles were instilled within him at a young age, and this prompted him to be the “good guy” throughout the piece. He has a solid relationship with nearly everyone he encounters. While him and Nala were separated for a period of time, their mutual respect for each other and both of their moral good’s brought them back together. Nala stays by Simba’s side throughout his journey to overthrow Scar. Hamlet’s relationship with his love interest Ophelia is not so loving. Hamlet is never consistent with Ophelia, he doesn’t assure her that they can be together. He rather shames her tell her things such as “Get thee (-- removed HTML --) a nunnery. Why wouldst thou be a breeder of sinners?” (3.1.131-2). Instead of drawing potential lovers in by his good nature, he condemns them, and further drives them to madness. A character’s central characterization has

With the strong use of manipulation and deception, madness easily is at the center of the conflicts in the play Hamlet. All examples of madness begin and end with death, tying into the concept of revenge. Hamlet’s ‘sham’ of madness is triggered by the death of his father and only grows stronger after seeing his ghost. Being tricked by Hamlet’s madness, Polonius attempts to figure out the reason for Hamlet’s behavior, assuming he is love-sick about Ophelia. This results in mockery in act 2, scene 2 as Polonius leaves the room and Hamlet mutters, “(aside) These tedious old fools!” (2.2 237). In act 3, scene 4, Polonius’ curiosity about Hamlet’s madness leads to his death, pushing the madness to Ophelia and Laertes. Like Hamlet, Laertes madness for his father, Polonius, led to his push towards vengeance, eating at the lies Claudius feeds to him, inspiring him to further seek revenge. By the end of the play, these characters exemplify